Product Design: Industrial Design

This first lecture module focuses on the historical aspect of product design. It seeks to evaluate the legacies of the practice by examining specific case studies that illustrate fundamental principles. Spanning the last 150 years it will establish a broad historical framework within which issues of innovation, technology and social value will be further elaborated and questioned. Key case study presentations will punctuate this broader discussion: from Thonet\'s innovation in furniture design and manufacturing, to Piaggio\'s Vespa in postwar Italy. Ultimately it will seek to ask the question of \”interest\” and \”value\” in products and the ideological implication of their design. Assignments will include weekly readings and informal product presentations.